The South African football fraternity is mourning the loss of former Bafana Bafana midfielder Lebogang Morula, who was tragically shot dead in Mmakau, North West, on Wednesday evening. Morula, 57, was a talented player who left an indelible mark on the South African football landscape.
The news of his death sent shockwaves through the football community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, coaches, and fans alike. Morula, a product of the renowned Jomo Cosmos academy, was a skillful and creative midfielder who enjoyed a successful career both domestically and internationally.
His journey began at Cosmos, where he honed his skills under the watchful eye of the legendary Jomo Sono. In 1995, Morula's talent earned him a move to Colombia, where he played for Once Caldas.
His international career reached its pinnacle when he was selected to represent South Africa at the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. Though his national team career was relatively short, Morula's presence on the world stage cemented his place as a legend in South African football.
However, Morula's life took a tragic turn after his playing days were over. In 2015, he was arrested for armed robbery and car theft, a stark contrast to the beloved footballer he once was. He was allegedly found in possession of a signal jamming device along with Mamelodi mechanic Billy Malope and Johannesburg taxi driver Thabani Thwala. The trio were reported to have attempted to rob the Standard Bank branch of Ogies of R3.4 million.
Morula's life was further marred by another arrest for robbery in Klipgat in 2014, although the case was later withdrawn.
The circumstances surrounding his death are equally tragic. Morula was shot and killed at the gate of his family home in Moumong, Mmakau, while on his way to the shops. His mother, Elizabeth Morula (81), recounted the horrifying scene to Daily Sun.
"My son told me that the electricity is too low and wants to purchase it. When he was at the gate, about to leave, I heard gunshots. My son was shot and killed by thugs. We're still traumatised and don’t know why they wanted him dead," she said.
The family is still reeling from the shock and grief of losing Lebogang, a son, brother, and father. Elizabeth expressed the family's need for space to come to terms with this devastating loss.
